Notes · Head to head
Obsidian vs Notion: which is better?
Short answer
Obsidian costs less in the first year ($48 vs $600). Pick Obsidian for local-first Markdown notes with plugins; pick Notion for docs, wikis and projects in one workspace.
| Fact | Obsidian | Notion | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Local-first Markdown notes with plugins | Docs, wikis and projects in one workspace | — |
| Free plan | Yes, app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons | Yes, single-user workspace, limited blocks for teams | Tie |
| Entry plan | Sync Standard: $4 / mo | Plus: $10 / seat / mo | — |
| Mid plan | Sync Plus: $8 / mo | Business: $20 / seat / mo | — |
| Top plan | Publish: $8 / mo | Business: $20 / seat / mo | — |
| 1st year | $48 | $600 | Obsidian |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Web, Chrome extension | Obsidian |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Obsidian or Notion?
Neither stands out: Obsidian: Yes, app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons; Notion: Yes, single-user workspace, limited blocks for teams.
Should you pick Obsidian or Notion?
Pick Obsidian if
- you want local-first Markdown notes with plugins
- the free plan is enough (app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons)
Pick Notion if
- you want docs, wikis and projects in one workspace
- the free plan is enough (single-user workspace, limited blocks for teams)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Obsidian pricing | obsidian.md/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Notion pricing | notion.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare